Chemical peel: before, during, and after

Many clients may hesitate to undergo chemical peels due to incorrect information about aftercare and recovery. My Perfect Skin Clinic provides a variety of chemical peels to clients wanting to renew their skin or address issues such as acne or hyperpigmentation.

Chemical peels vary in composition and potency based on the client’s desired results and individual demands. The chemical composition of peels causes skin cells to shed at an accelerated rate, which may resemble sunburn peeling.

Recovery timeframes vary based on the intensity of a peel, but clients typically recover within two weeks. Some chemical peels necessitate multiple treatments for optimal results and are outpatient procedures.
 

How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel

Choose the Appropriate Peel Type for Your Skin

Before deciding to undergo this kind of treatment, we recommend obtaining the advice of at least three providers, with the qualification that “providers should take into account your age, skin color, and overall skin condition.” Don’t be fooled by general peels because “the peel’s goal should be highly tailored to the client’s needs.”

Stop Using Exfoliants at Home

To prepare the skin for the treatment, refrain from using any at-home exfoliants in the days preceding your appointment. Many of our beauty products contain exfoliants like retinol and salicylic acid. If you continue to use them before your consultation, they might cause trauma to the skin, which may result in more harm. If you have sensitive skin, it is recommended that you discontinue using physical exfoliants such as face scrubs and devices like Clarisonic.

Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Before your consultation, it is crucial to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. For two to three days, refrain from applying any creams or serums that may be causing dryness.

Evaluate Your Prescriptions

Consider how any acne or anti-aging medications you take might alter your skin’s response to the chemical peel. Consult your dermatologist or aesthetician if you have questions about whether your products can be used before your chemical peel.

Avoid Scheduling a Peel Close to a Major Event

The last part of getting ready is to make a plan. If you’re going to get a chemical peel before a big occasion, give your skin plenty of time to recover so you can feel confident in your appearance.

What to Anticipate at Your Appointment

During a chemical peel, the skin’s intense peeling process will commence. You will have the choice to select the type of peel you desire, though it is advisable to base your decision on the advice of your specialist. Chemical peels range in depth from very light/superficial to moderate/medium depth to full depth. The entire process often takes less than an hour, and your skin care professional will typically remain in the room to monitor for unpleasant reactions as the treatment dries.

Due to its very acidic chemical composition, the peel can cause a burning or tingling feeling once it has been applied and has begun drying. The level of discomfort associated with a chemical peel varies from patient to patient and depends on the peel being administered. Contrary to common belief, however, even people with sensitive skin can find a chemical peel that works for them. Peels don’t need to hurt, burn, or create significant redness and irritation to be effective.

What to Consider Following a Chemical Peel

Your Skin Will Peel for 3 to 10 Days

How long will depend on the type and concentration of the peel solution. Traditional medium-depth chemical peels require three to seven days for the skin to exfoliate and reveal new pink skin. At the same time, deeper peels, including phenol may require seven to ten days of recovery. Peeling should begin on or around the third day following a peel, not immediately.

Be Gentle With Your Skin

Utilize a mild cleanser and a moisturizing serum or gel, such as one containing hyaluronic acid or ceramides in the days following a chemical peel to help calm the skin. Treat the newly formed skin immediately with stem cell and light therapy. This addresses the health of the new skin cells at the cellular level and is your chance to reset your skin and begin again. Incorporating effective aftercare remedies such as colloidal silver, and sometimes an occlusive like Aquaphor will assist in hydrating, stabilizing, and protecting the new skin. These compounds will enhance the skin’s ability to combat free-radical damage at this early stage, which is crucial and frequently disregarded.

Do Not Ignore SPF

The chemical peel is utilized to expedite the exfoliation of dead skin cells to show new, healthy skin. The most significant risk during this procedure is sun exposure. We recommend applying a broad-spectrum SPF with a high factor to protect the skin during the critical period following the procedure. During a peel, the skin is thinner and more sensitive to UV damage. After a chemical peel, it is vital to apply a physical block SPF for at least two months.

Avoid Excessive Skin Heating

You should not allow hot water to contact your face because inflammation can worsen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). We recommend you avoid hot showers and maintain water at or below room temperature.

My Perfect Skin Clinic is an expert in chemical peels for various body parts. Contact our skin care experts if you want clearer skin, a brighter tone, or a smoother texture.